An update from Board President, Carol Dvorak

The fifth co-op principle, education, training and information, helps all of us – trustees, members and employees – effectively contribute to the development of the cooperative. Education about the nature and benefits of cooperatives, particularly with the general public and opinion leaders, helps boost understanding about the cooperative business model.

Central recently revamped its Ambassador Program which aims to educate, train and inform members. Ambassadors are a diverse group of members and community leaders committed to the cooperative’s mission and principles.

Ambassadors attend a series of training sessions during their first year. The cooperative staff have put together a great curriculum for ambassadors that covers the cooperative model and principles, the future of the energy industry, and an in-depth look at Central’s current and future initiatives. The sessions are a deep dive into all things Central.

In addition to attending training sessions, the Ambassadors will act as a liaison between Central, its members and the communities we serve. In the future, you may see ambassadors serving alongside employees and trustees at community events or attending Central Community Foundation grant presentations.

The Ambassador Program is fluid, and new Ambassadors will be appointed every few years. Nominations will be accepted from Central board members, employees, Ambassadors and Central Community Foundation directors.

Following the completion of the program, Ambassadors will remain involved in the cooperative - participating in member meetings and interacting with members at various events. Our intent is for Ambassadors to be an extension of the cooperative by helping tell the cooperative story and sharing our legacy with the communities we serve.

Central is continually looking for engaged members to serve as Ambassadors. If you have experience or an interest in the electric industry or the cooperative model and would like to be considered in the selection process, please let us know.

You may email editor@mycentral.coop or send a note to Central at 3305 S. Boomer Road, Stillwater, OK 74076.